Bloomberg reports Carolina Panthers rookie RB R.J. Bowers is hopeful a failed career in baseball may turn into a positive career in the NFL. Bowers said he was too immature during his time in the Houston Astros' system and didn't spend time working out or trying. Now, he's become a workout warrior and prides himself on work ethic. He's being given a chance to catch on with the Panthers, but his 4.7 speed in the forty-yard dash may limit his chances at tailback as the team could work him at fullback instead. Bowers said he has a lot of learning to do in order to get the Panthers several-hundred plays memorized.

The Gaston Gazette reports Carolina Panthers rookie RB R.J. Bowers, an undrafted rookie free agent that signed a three-year deal with the team the day after the draft, is looking forward to the challenge of making the Panthers' roster and stated he'll do whatever it takes to get a chance. While at Grove City (Pa.) College, Bowers rushed for 7,353 yards and 91 TDs. He had a string of 32-straight 100+ yard rushing games. Head coach George Seifert stated Bowers jumped out at him a little bit during the team's mini-camp.

Steve Reed reports for the Gaston Gazette Carolina Panthers undrafted free agent RB R.J. Bowers from Grove City (Pa.) College, made a solid first impression on coach George Seifert. "I was impressed for a fellow of his size the movement," Seifert said of Bowers, the NCAA's all-time rushing leader. Seifert is unclear of whether will work at fullback or running back. Third round draft choice, WR Steve Smith, seemed to stand out as well. He showed excellent speed returning punts and running pass routes.

The Charlotte Observer reports Carolina Panthers coach George Seifert said after the NFL Draft the team will continue to evaluate its RB position. The Panthers drafted Syracuse RB Dadrian Brown in the sixth round, but it remains to be seen if that satisfies the need for depth behind Tshimanga Biakabutuka. The team reportedly signed undrafted free agent R.J. Bowers and they have talked to free agent RB Donnell Bennett, formerly of the Chiefs. It remains to be seen if the Broncos and Seahawks will keep RBs Mike Anderson and Ricky Watters on the trading block. Brad Hoover also can play RB, but the team wants him to also work at fullback with Chris Hetherington.

The Tribune Review reports the Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to open their new stadium, not counting pre-season, with a Sunday night game against the Cleveland Browns on week one or two. Director of football operations Kevin Colbert was part of a Steelers group that worked out Grove City College RB R.J. Bowers. Most draft experts feel Bowers will be picked after the third round of the NFL Draft. Former Steelers contract negotiator Dan Ferens is talking to the Houston Texans about becoming their top negotiator.